Courtroom Etiquette

A court session begins when the court official raps for order. Everyone in
the court rises. The judge takes his or her place on the bench, and the court
official announces the opening of court. A similar procedure is used when court
adjourns.

Common courtesy and politeness are safe guides as to the way jurors should
act. Of course, no juror will be permitted to read a newspaper or magazine
in the courtroom. Nor should a juror carry on a conversation with another juror
in the courtroom during the trial.

Jurors will be treated with consideration. Their comfort and convenience
will be served whenever possible. They should bring to the attention of the
judge any matter affecting their service and should notify the court of any
emergencies. In the event of a personal emergency a juror may send word to
the judge through any court personnel, or may ask to see the judge privately.